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Dr. Bronce Rice's avatar

@Dr Deborah Vinall - "I am born of defiant blood. I will not close my eyes to injustice. I will not look away. I will not stand inert to oppression. I don’t know how my grandparents fostered theirs, (in many ways it seems you do in the repetition) but I know what I am doing for my own. We must fortify ourselves and one another for the days and years ahead. I’m practicing this every day, my strong but still act of resistance. Fighting hatred with peace.

And, I’m beginning to dance (who has danced and who dances). And I questioned myself: with all that is going on, what meaning is there in so silly a pursuit as learning to dance at my age? Let us strategically embrace joy and bathe in art with a passion that invites others to dance along."

Life, as art itself, is a series of repetitions, conscious or otherwise, and understanding the history of the repetiton becomes paramount to change and liberation. The human struggle, within and without, and the ubiquitous art of living that is saught, so poignantly wrapped in defiance and yet with higher purpose in mind and body, is wonderfully beautifully heartfeltfully thoughtfully portrayed herewithin. This is your right and I honor your path for the alternative is no way of living❤️‍🔥

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Dr Deborah Vinall's avatar

Thank you, Dr. Bronce!

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Riley Ron Ivey Forrest's avatar

Never let the darkness of doubt overshadow the light of your conviction. Keep pushing forward, even when the path seems uncertain, for it is in the pursuit of truth that we find our greatest strength. Every step we take, every voice we raise and every challenge we overcome brings us closer to a brighter tomorrow. So stand tall,hold firm ,keep dancing and never quit fighting for what's right.

Respect to ya and your family for being an inspiration for others to never quit and keep going ✨💯.

Thanks for sharing 👍

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Dr Deborah Vinall's avatar

Thank you for these encouraging words! 💛

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Sarah  Hawkins (she/her)'s avatar

I love the deep dive into your family history for inspiration, courage and the expression of love and joy expressed in movement and dance. All creatures do it, so that speaks to how important it is to express ourselves that way. It’s a wonderful story too.

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Dr Deborah Vinall's avatar

Thank you! You're right, it is important! 💗

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Hannah Harder, Eco-advocacy's avatar

I love your historical imagining.

And yes, please dance! During COVID an old friend taught a virtual ballet class and I joined despite many things including struggling with neurological issues from a vaccine injury. It was the best thing and I was so happy to get real ballet leather shoes!!

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Dr Deborah Vinall's avatar

I'm excited to own a pair!!

(Btw this history is my true family history. :) These heros were my grandparents!)

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Hannah Harder, Eco-advocacy's avatar

That was understood

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Dr Deborah Vinall's avatar

Oh sorry, I misunderstood your comment! 🫠

Thank you for reading and for your encouragement! 💛

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Adina Dinu's avatar

What a wonderful family legacy! <3 <3

Happy dancing :)

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Dr Deborah Vinall's avatar

Thank you!!

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Charlie Kamilos's avatar

This is YOUR family story?

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Dr Deborah Vinall's avatar

Yes! Marten was my Papa, my Dad's dad.

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Charlie Kamilos's avatar

As we used to say in my generation, my hat is off to you and yours! Respect and honor!

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Dr Deborah Vinall's avatar

Thank you!

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